While spring and summer may be popular choices for weddings, there's an undeniable charm and enchantment to saying "I do" during winter. A winter wedding offers a unique and magical backdrop, allowing couples to create a celebration that is both cosy and elegant. From (potential) snow-kissed landscapes to the warm glow of candlelight, a winter wonderland wedding sets the stage for a truly memorable and romantic affair.
Cosy and Intimate Atmosphere:
Winter weddings offer a natural cosiness that is perfect for creating an intimate atmosphere. Imagine exchanging vows by a crackling fireplace, with the warmth and flickering light casting a romantic glow on the couple and their guests. Embracing the chill of the season allows for the inclusion of snug blankets, hot cocoa stations, and other cosy touches that make everyone feel wrapped in love.
Seasonal Decor and Themes:
Winter weddings provide a canvas for breathtaking seasonal decor and themes. From elegant white and silver colour schemes to rustic evergreen and cranberry accents, the possibilities are endless. Incorporating winter elements like pinecones, twinkle lights, and frosted branches adds a touch of seasonal charm to the decor, creating a visual feast for the eyes.
Winter Wardrobe Elegance:
Winter fashion for weddings brings an extra layer of sophistication. Long-sleeved wedding dresses, fur wraps, and velvet suits add an element of warmth and style to the bridal party's attire. The groomsmen can embrace the season with tailored tweed suits or cosy scarves, creating a cohesive and fashionable winter ensemble.
Check out April's fur wrap during their December wedding at Burton Court.
Festive and Flavourful Menus:
Winter weddings allow for the inclusion of hearty and flavourful menus that celebrate the season. From comforting soups and rich stews to decadent desserts like warm apple pie or spiced gingerbread, winter wedding menus can be a culinary delight. Speciality winter cocktails and hot beverage stations add an extra layer of warmth and festivity to the celebration. We had a Christmas Dinner with all the trimmings for Jame's and April's big day. It was perfect.
Practical Considerations:
While the aesthetics of a winter wedding are undeniably captivating, it's important to consider practical aspects. Providing guests with warm amenities such as blankets or shawls, choosing a venue with indoor spaces for shelter, and having a backup plan in case of inclement weather are all thoughtful considerations to ensure everyone is comfortable and can fully enjoy the celebration.
James and April:
In the winter months, Burton Court in Herefordshire transforms into a captivating wonderland, casting a spell of enchantment over weddings hosted within its historic walls. The hall's grandeur takes on a new level of charm. Imagine exchanging vows in front of a crackling fireplace, the warm glow illuminating the rich tapestries and ornate details of the hall's interiors. The winter ambience at Burton Court is nothing short of magical, with the stately architecture adorned with seasonal decorations and soft candlelight, creating an intimate and romantic atmosphere. The grand halls and cosy corners of Burton Court provide the perfect balance for a winter wedding, allowing couples to embrace the season's charm while celebrating their love in a setting that exudes timeless elegance. From the frost-kissed gardens to the inviting interiors, Burton Court in Herefordshire offers a picturesque backdrop for couples seeking a winter wedding that is both sophisticated and enchanting. Here are some more images from James and April's wedding on December 3rd.
Andy and Anya:
A February wedding in a tipi conjures a scene of enchanting intimacy and rustic romance. Imagine stepping into a cozy haven, warmed by the soft glow of fairy lights and the crackling embrace of a central fire. Outside, the air is crisp, the magical ambiance is further heightened as guests gather around the warmth of the fire pit, sharing laughter and joy. A February tipi wedding offers a unique and heartwarming experience, blending the rustic charm of an outdoor celebration with the cozy comforts of winter, creating a day that is as unforgettable as the love being celebrated within its canvas walls. Some images from Andy and Anya's February Tipi reception... Tipi by Elite Tents.
Conclusion:
A winter wedding is a magical journey into a world of snowy splendour, cosy atmospheres, and seasonal elegance. From the picturesque landscapes to the intimate settings, winter weddings create an enchanting backdrop for couples to celebrate their love. Embracing the charm of the season allows for unique and memorable touches that will make the wedding day truly special. So, for couples seeking a romantic and unforgettable celebration, a winter wonderland wedding may be the perfect choice. However, there are some considerations for you and your photographer... So I've popped together 5 tips for photography for you and your photographer on your winter wedding day.
Five tips for photography on your winter wedding day:
Embrace Natural Light Creatively: Winter weddings often come with shorter daylight hours, so make the most of natural light during the ceremony and portrait sessions. Utilise the softer, diffused light on overcast days for flattering and even illumination. During the limited daylight, plan outdoor shoots strategically, such as during the golden hour shortly before sunset, to capture warm and romantic tones. Additionally, be prepared with artificial lighting equipment for indoor shots, ensuring that you can maintain a high level of image quality in any lighting condition. In the UK, you're going to loose the light at 4pm, so plan accordingly.
Dress for the Elements: Winter weather can be unpredictable, so be sure to dress appropriately for the conditions. Keep in mind that you may be moving between indoor and outdoor settings, so versatile clothing and footwear are essential. For a photographer being prepared for the elements ensures that you can focus on capturing beautiful moments without being hindered by the weather.
Communicate and Coordinate: Stay in close communication with between you and all vendors to align expectations and plans for the day. Discuss the timeline, potential outdoor photo locations, and any backup plans in case of inclement weather. Winter weddings may require flexibility, so being adaptable and prepared for changes will help ensure a smooth and stress-free photography experience.
Leverage Winter Aesthetics: Take advantage of the unique visual elements that winter brings to enhance your photos. Snow-covered landscapes, frosty details, and the warm glow of candles or string lights create a magical backdrop. Encourage the winter-inspired accessories like fur wraps, elegant coats, or seasonal bouquets that add a touch of seasonal charm to the photos.
Capture Candid Moments Indoors: With the potential for colder temperatures, indoor spaces become crucial for capturing candid moments and emotional exchanges. Utilise the venue's unique features, such as grand staircases, ornate architecture, or cosy corners, to add variety to your shots. Candid moments during toasts, dances, and heartfelt interactions are just as important as posed shots and can often be even more intimate in an indoor setting.
Andy & Anya:
James and April:
Hair: Kthd
MUA: nicolaharrisonmakeup